is the Director of Tennis at Westport Tennis Club. Originally from Stratford, Connecticut, Ricky joined the Westport Tennis Club staff in 2003. He is also the Director of our summer program. Ricky played college tennis at Franklin Pierce College, graduating in 2003. He led FPC to their first two NCAA Tournament appearances in 2002 and 2003. He also received the Richard Burns Award in 2003, given to the College’s Student-Athlete of the year. In addition to his time at Westport Tennis, Ricky has also spent time teaching at Sportime in Mamaroneck, NY, and Grand Slam in Banksville, NY. His experience, energy, and enthusiasm are infectious to both the adults and the juniors that play with him.

PTR Certified Racquet Sports Professional
Born in Zambia, in the Sub-Saharan region of Africa, David Mwanza brings nearly two decades of professional tennis experience to the court. Since 2006, he has been committed to developing players of all levels—from beginners discovering the game to advanced athletes competing at elite levels.
David is a PTR-certified racquet sports professional who has coached at renowned facilities such as Midtown Tennis in Chicago and the Billie Jean King Tennis Center in New York. His career includes serving twice as an Ohio State Championship high school coach, where he guided teams and individuals to top-level success.
Since joining Westport Tennis Club in 2013, David has become a cornerstone of the coaching staff, known for his ability to simplify the game while producing powerful, lasting results. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting with a minor in Business Administration and brings a disciplined, analytical approach to player development.
Beyond the court, David and his wife, Mulenga, share a passion for tennis with their five children—Benjamin, Zachary, Naomi, Caleb, and Daniel—all of whom have been exposed to and inspired by the sport.

Tennis Professional
Will Mercorella has spent much of his life immersed in the game of tennis, both as a player and a coach. A highly ranked USTA junior competitor, he achieved top-ten standings in New England in both the Boys’ 16s and 18s divisions before continuing his tennis career at Lafayette College, where he competed in both singles and doubles and served as captain of the Division I Men’s Tennis Team.
Before joining Westport Tennis Club, Will served as Assistant Director at Bedford Golf and Tennis, where he honed his leadership and coaching skills. Over the years, he has worked at several premier clubs across Fairfield and Westchester County, teaching and mentoring players of all ages and skill levels—from young juniors to adults and aspiring collegiate athletes.
Known for his enthusiasm, technical insight, and engaging on-court presence, Will brings a dynamic and motivating energy to every session. His passion for the game and ability to connect with players make him a valued member of the Westport Tennis Club coaching team.

Joining WTC for his first season, George hails from Accra, Ghana. He was a top junior in his home nation, highlighted by Davis Cup Africa Zone Group III during his prime. He comes to us after working with Tennis Innovators Academy, and most recently Tennis Club of Hastings. George brings lots of energy, loads of skill, a great attitude, and tons of fun every time he steps on the court!

Chris has been teaching in Fairfield County since 2000.He has served as both a Head Professional and Staff Professional at leading facilities including Vista Indoor Tennis, Oak Hills Park Tennis Center, Intensity Tennis Academy, and Chelsea Piers Connecticut.

Since the summer of 2024, Chris has been a Leading Professional for the Town of Westport, where he focuses on adult clinics and the development of high-level junior “Team” programs. He brings a strong commitment to player development and works effectively with athletes across all skill levels.

Chris is a USPTA Certified Professional. He was also a highly competitive player, having competed in all four major championships in the early 1980s.

Ben developed a passion for tennis at an early age and brings a strong competitive background to his coaching. He captained the tennis team at the Landon School before continuing his playing career at Dickinson College, where he competed at the NCAA Division III level.

Ben emphasizes sound fundamentals, purposeful movement, smart strategy, and a positive mindset. He takes the time to understand each player’s individual needs and creates an encouraging environment in which students can improve their technique, compete with greater confidence, and enjoy the learning process.

Drawing on his experience in both competitive tennis and martial arts, Ben brings enthusiasm, patience, and discipline to every lesson. He enjoys helping players of all ages develop lasting skills and become more confident, well-rounded athletes.

Originally from New York City, Will began playing tennis at a young age. After moving to Fairfield, Connecticut, he competed extensively in junior tournaments and played No. 1 singles at Notre Dame Catholic High School. He later studied Film and English at the University of Miami.

Will brings more than a decade of coaching experience with players of all ages and skill levels. He has served as Racquet Sports Director at The Farms Country Club, Junior Program Director at Milford Indoor Tennis, a Tennis Professional at Trumbull Racquet Club, and Head Coach of the Trumbull High School Boys Tennis Team. During the summer, he teaches at Brooklawn Country Club in Fairfield.

Will emphasizes sound technique, tactical awareness, and clear communication. His energetic and supportive approach helps players improve their skills, build confidence, and develop a lasting appreciation for the game.

Paco brings a wealth of experience to the WTC, including 15 years as a Director of Tennis at both the Easton Racquet Club and Weston Field Club. He also served as the Staples High School Tennis Coach for both the Boys' and Girls' teams, leading them to an impressive 6 Connecticut State tennis championships. Furthermore, Paco was a Nationally Ranked Junior Tennis Player and played #1 Singles and Doubles for Providence College.

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